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A weekly spotlight on arts activities in Central Illinois. Out and About is made possible in part by PNC Financial Services and a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.

ICC professor Joe Chianakas unveils new novel 'Pride and Persistence'

ICC Professor Joe Chianakas talks about his new novel Pride and Persistence in this episode of WCBU's Out and About

On this week's episode of Out and About, Dr. Mae Gilliland Wright of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with author Joe Chianakas. The ICC professor is also an LGBTQIA+ advocate and martial arts expert and talks about his new novel, Pride and Persistence. Joining them is Cheryl Langley, manager of the Book Nook in Peoria, which will be hosting multi-author book signing events from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 8 and July 27.

Chianakas' new book is a follow up to his celebrated novel Singlets and Secrets, which was praised by Jon Hurwitz, co-creator of the acclaimed television series Cobra Kai, as "equal parts fresh, heartfelt, entertaining, and important."

Jody Holtz is WCBU's assistant program and development director, All Things Considered host, as well as the producer of WCBU’s arts and culture podcast Out and About.